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As the temperatures begin to dip and the leaves on the trees start to turn gold, one might assume that the gardening season is winding down. However, seasoned gardeners know that this is the ideal moment to strategize and plant the vibrant blossoms of next spring. Among these, bulbs require particular attention, ideally being planted a few weeks prior to the first frost.
“October is the prime month for sowing low-maintenance bulbs that will bloom in spring,” explains Angelika Zaber, a gardening expert and lawn care specialist with Online Turf, a provider of turf, soil, and compost. She clarifies that spring bulbs require a spell of cooler weather, known as vernalization, to trigger the biochemical process that forms the flower bud. “Planting them in October ensures the roots have ample time to establish before the temperatures plummet and the process begins,” Zaber further elaborates.
To assist you in planning your garden for next year, we’ve sought out expert recommendations for their preferred low-maintenance bulbs to plant at this time.
Tammy Sons, the founder and CEO of TN Nursery, asserts that “daffodils are as reliable as they come.” Resilient and resistant to deer, they grow stronger each year, and are cherished for their sunny yellow petals, symbolizing hope as they herald the end of winter and the beginning of a brighter season.
To cultivate daffodils, Zaber advises planting them in a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil, and watering the soil around the bulb to secure it and release any air pockets. She points out that additional watering is unnecessary unless there’s an extended dry spell.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–8
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drained
Water: Moderate; water after planting, then during prolonged dry periods
Each spring, apply a general fertilizer to give your daffodils a nutritional boost. “While the bulbs should flower without issues in their first year, subsequent years benefit from feeding,” Zaber advises.
Crocuses are another spring favorite, favored by Zaber as well. “Crocuses naturally shed their flowers, eliminating the need for deadheading, making them an ideal low-maintenance option for your garden or greenhouse,” she notes.
Remember that if planted in the ground, watering crocus bulbs isn’t necessary, as rainfall will provide all the moisture they need. “But it’s crucial to fertilize them with a general-purpose fertilizer right after the flowers fade, while the leaves are still lush,” Zaber adds.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–8
Light: Full sun to partial sun
Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy
Water: Low; natural rainfall is sufficient
A classic list of spring bulbs wouldn’t be complete without tulips! Sons recommends refrigerating the bulbs for a couple of weeks before planting to simulate winter dormancy and encourage more robust blooms, though she acknowledges that “tulips are worth the extra care.”
They thrive in full sun and require moderate watering, just enough to keep the soil slightly damp as they take root. Plant bulbs in groups of five or more for a more natural appearance once they bloom.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–7
Light: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining, loose soil with compost
Water: Moderate; keep slightly moist during growth, then reduce after blooming
Following planting, add a thin layer of mulch to insulate the bulbs during winter and maintain consistent soil moisture.
These delicate, fluffy flowers might not immediately spring to mind when considering spring blooms, but they deserve a spot. “Alliums, part of the onion family, are a distinctive spring flower that can add a unique touch to your garden,” says Ward Dilmore, founder and head landscape designer at Petrus Luxury Estate Landscaping Company. “There are a variety of colors and types, including pink, blue, and white.”
They enjoy plenty of organic matter (like compost) in well-drained soil. “You may want to consider using bulb cages to protect them from squirrels and other rodents during fall and winter,” Dilmore adds.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Light: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained soil with abundant organic matter
Water: Low to moderate; avoid waterlogged soil to prevent rot
According to Steve Corcoran, CEO of Lawn Love, October is an opportune time to plant snowdrop bulbs. “They are among the first to bloom in early spring, so I prefer planting their bulbs in the fall,” Corcoran notes. “Depending on your location, aim to plant them between late September and early November,” ideally before the first frost and when night temperatures are consistently around 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit.
In addition to timing the planting correctly, ensure the bulbs are placed in a location that receives some shade, if not full shade.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–8
Light: Partial to full shade
Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich
Water: Moderate; maintain even moisture during growth, especially during dry periods
Dilmore also highlights the lesser-known wild hyacinth (or Cammasia), which belongs to the asparagus family and offers a stunning display of flowers in early spring, with colors ranging from blues to pinks and whites. “They are quite low-maintenance and prefer full sun with well-draining soil rich in nutrients,” Dilmore explains. “They can tolerate some moisture, making them suitable for areas that remain slightly damp in spring.”
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9
Light: Full sun to partial sun
Soil: Nutrient-rich, well-draining soil that can remain slightly damp in spring
Water: Moderate; tolerates occasional dampness but not standing water
